UofL Health Blog

April 05, 2018

Did you know that colorectal cancer is treatable if caught early through screening?

Colorectal cancer refers to a type of gastrointestinal cancer that usually begins as a growth, called a polyp, in either the colon or the rectum. Kentucky has some of the highest rates of colorectal cancer deaths in the country. In 2013, the Commonwealth ranked fourth in the nation for colorectal cancer deaths, according to the Colon Cancer Prevention Project.

Fortunately, through early detection and treatment, the disease is also highly preventable. At least 60 percent of deaths from this cancer could be avoided if those 50 years or older had regular screening test, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

Review the infographic below to learn more about risk factors for colon cancer and warning signs.

Preventive health screenings are key to detecting diseases before you have symptoms. Speak to your primary care provider to learn more about each type of health screening available.